Review: Secure Enterprise File Sync & Sharing (EFSS) Services

What is an Enterprise File Synchronization & Sharing (EFSS) service?

Enterprise File Synchronization and Sharing (EFSS) services refers to a range of local or distributed (cloud-based) services that enables individuals to synchronize and share file-based information (documents, photos, videos, etc.) across computational devices, including desktop PCs, tablets, and smartphones. File-synchonization ensures that the files being stored are accessible and consistently updated across devices in near real-time. File-sharing is facilitated not only across devices, but between people within and outside an organization. For example, and individual might share a confidential report file among her internal work colleagues, as well as selected external clients subject to a non-disclosure agreement.

Beyond file synchronization and file-sharing functionality, EFFS services may offer various different levels of support for other functions, such as mobility, security, collaboration, and system admin. In this review, in addition to the basic functions we will emphasize security (i.e., cybersecurity).

Although there is a proliferation of competitive Enterprise File Synchronization & Sharing (EFSS) services, there is a wide variation in terms of functionality, usability, and cybersecurity tradeoffs. The following selected comparison compares and contrasts some of the most popular EFSS services with an emphasis on their security features.